Read Luke 6:17-26

JESUS GIVES THE BEATITUDES
Once word of Jesus’ healing power spread, crowds gathered just to touch Him. For many, He had became a magician or a symbol of good fortune. Instead of desiring God’s pardon and love, they only wanted physical healing or a chance to see spectacular events. Some people still see Jesus as a cosmic magician and consider prayer as a way to get God to do tricks. But God is not a magician – He is the Master. Prayer is not a way for us to control God; it is a way for us to put ourselves under His control.
The hunger about which Jesus spoke of is a hunger for righteousness. In a nation where riches were seen as a sign of God’s favor, Jesus startled His listeners by pronouncing blessings on the hungry. In doing so, He was in line with an ancient tradition. The Old Testament is filled with texts proclaiming God’s concern for the poor and needy.
These verses are called the Beatitudes from the Latin word meaning “Blessings.” They describe what it means to be Christ’s followers; they are standards of conduct; they contrast Kingdom values with worldly values, showing what Christ’s followers can expect from the world and what God will give them; they contrast fake piety with true humility; and finally, they show how Old Testament expectations are fulfilled in God’s Kingdom.
If you are trying to find fulfillment only in riches and worldly things, wealth may be the only reward you will ever get – and it does not last. You should not seek comfort now at the expense of eternal life.
There are many false prophets in Old Testament times. They are praised by kings and crowds because their predictions – prosperity and victory over enemies – were exactly what the people wanted to hear. But popularity is no guarantee of truth, and human flattery does not bring God’s approval. Sadness lies ahead for those who chase after the crowd’s praises rather than God’s truth.